TRUE COLORS WORKSHOP TODAY
This workshop will help participants discover individual personality styles, preferences, and motivators.
The principles learned in this workshop will empower participants to better understand and work with individual of different personality types by opening lines of communication and reducing personal misunderstandings. Conducted at the Airman and Family Readiness Center Bldg. 668 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., call 987-6801 for scheduling.
CHIEF’S GROUP 5K
The Little Rock Chief’s Group has a 5K Challenge scheduled for May 3 at the small base lake pavilion. Registration begins at 9:45 a.m. and the run begins at 10:45 p.m. A burger burn will follow the run.
Those bringing $30 in pledges will receive a free T-shirt, lunch and a ticket for a chance to win prizes. All proceeds are donated back to base programs. it is open to all officers, enlisted, civilian and family members. The age groups are 17 and under, 18 to 27, 28 to 35, 36 to 42 and 43 and over.
For more information, contact any Little Rock AFB chief master sergeant.
DEDICATION TODAY
The base will be dedicating the B-58 Hustler on May 3 at 3 p.m. at Heritage Park.
19TH LRS CHANGE OF COMMAND
The 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron change-of-command ceremony is at 10 a.m., May 6, in Bldg. 450, E-Ring.
BENEFITS DELIVERY AND DISCHARGE
This brief prepares the service member retiring or separating to better understand the benefits available and to start their VA claim. Information packages will be emailed out once enrolled.
This is conducted at the Airman and Family Readiness Center Bldg 668 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., call 987-6801.
AIR FORCE 101 SPOUSE (HEARTLINK)
This class teaches spouses about the Air Force way of life including: acronyms, protocol, pay statements, available resources and much more conducted at the Airman and Family Readiness Center Bldg 668, call 987-6801 for appointment.
QUARTLEY DEPLOYMENT DINNER
Wing Deployed family dinner hosted by A&FRC and Chapel to provide a night of food and fun for families at the Thomas Community Activities Center Bldg. 868 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. call 987-6801.
BUNDLE FOR BABIES
For active duty families expecting a child or with a newborn, AF Reserve and National Guard may attend if on title 10 orders for over 15 days.
It is held at the Airman and Family Readiness Center, Bldg. 668 from 9 to 11:45 a.m., call 987-6801 for an appointment
PRE-DEPLOYMENT BRIEFING
This is a mandatory brief for all personnel who are going to be TDY or Deployed for more than 30 days, conducted at the Airman and Family Readiness Center Bldg. 668 from 9 to 10 a.m., call 987-6801 for an appointment
EFMP SUPPORT GROUP MEETING
Monthly support group meeting for program enrollees and family member conducted at the Airman and Family Readiness Center bldg 668 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Contact Mrs. Stephanie Koonst at 987-8480.
PRE-SEPRATION BRIEFING
Mandatory for all service members separating or retiring.
Benefits and Services available conducted at the Airman and Family Readiness Center Bldg. 668 from 9 to 11:30 a.m., call 987-6801 for an appointment.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
COMMENTARY>>Military service: ‘I put on my uniform’
By Chief Master Sgt. Andrea J. Gates
314th Airlift Wing Command Chief
I was sitting in the IDS meeting and part of the agenda was reviewing items from the Caring for People Forums. One of the issues raised was, not everyone seemed to be pulling their weight as far as being available (for various reasons) for deployments. It was voiced that it seemed to be the same people going on deployments and the same people that didn’t. This begets the question: Why should the one group of people be continuously putting themselves in harm’s way and on top of that, miss birthdays, anniversaries, births and more? After hearing this I was reminded of an essay I had read and decided it was very appropriate to share.
A chief master sergeant sits behind his desk, just down the hall from the operations group commander’s office at Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina. As the chief finishes his second cup of coffee and the last of the morning messages, the commander steps into the chief’s office.
“Chief,” the colonel says, “I hate to ask you this, but you are needed in Southwest Asia in six days for a 90-day rotation. Can you go?” With no emotion in his voice or without even looking up, the chief replies, “I put on my uniform this morning, didn’t I?” The colonel is taken aback – the chief doesn’t normally talk in riddles. Has this veteran of 28 years finally gone off the deep end? The wise old protector of the enlisted corps smiles and begins to explain.
“I made a promise to myself more than 20 years ago that I would only put this uniform on as long as I’m available for duty.” While this may seem obvious to some Air Force members, it seems to completely escape others. Available for duty means more than the desire to negotiate and select the premium assignments or choice TDYs.
Available for duty requires us to go any place in the world the President or officers appointed over us determines, at any given time. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t have or receive our preferences. It does mean we’ll go when and where we are needed and called.
This approach may seem overly simplistic; however, upon further review I think everyone can agree, when it comes to defining service to our country, the answer is just that simple. In today’s world of “what can you do for me?” it’s easy to lose sight of what “service to our country” is all about. Service goes far beyond the individual; it affects the well-being of our nation. Sitting at home it is easy to forget the sacrifices we agree to endure in service of our country. Deployed to Southwest Asia, Italy or Bosnia, the sacrifices become much clearer. The bottom line is today we are an “all-volunteer force”. Our force has been reduced by 30 percent in the last five years while it remains a highly mobilized, continually-tasked organization. Everyone is vital to its continued success.
The Air Force will go on tomorrow with or without any single one of us; however, the efficiency of any one of its specific units may be adversely affected by the loss of only a few. All of us have the responsibility to report our availability for duty. If someone has a special family problem or special circumstance that precludes them from being available, they need to report it immediately and especially prior to being deployed. If any single member does not deploy when called upon, another member is forced to fill the slot. Anytime someone can’t or will not deploy, the ripple effect is felt throughout the Air Force. Everyone’s family would like them to be home for the holidays. I can’t think of anyone who would intentionally miss their child’s graduation. We’re all aware of the pain of losing a loved one is compounded by the grief of not being at their side in the final moments. Military members are asked to sacrifice all of this continuously. What we must remember is that we are serving our nation and we are all volunteers. It is not easy-no one said it would be. The leadership of our country depends on all of us to take a good look in the mirror and ask “am I available for duty?” If the answer is yes, then continue as the true professional you are expected to be. If the answer is no, you need to immediately notify your supervisor or commander. Your next step is determine if your non-availability is temporary or permanent. You then face the toughest question: should you resign, separate or retire? There are no pat answers.
Everyone must decide for themselves. Just as the chief, I too put on my uniform today and I am available for duty.
314th Airlift Wing Command Chief
I was sitting in the IDS meeting and part of the agenda was reviewing items from the Caring for People Forums. One of the issues raised was, not everyone seemed to be pulling their weight as far as being available (for various reasons) for deployments. It was voiced that it seemed to be the same people going on deployments and the same people that didn’t. This begets the question: Why should the one group of people be continuously putting themselves in harm’s way and on top of that, miss birthdays, anniversaries, births and more? After hearing this I was reminded of an essay I had read and decided it was very appropriate to share.
A chief master sergeant sits behind his desk, just down the hall from the operations group commander’s office at Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina. As the chief finishes his second cup of coffee and the last of the morning messages, the commander steps into the chief’s office.
“Chief,” the colonel says, “I hate to ask you this, but you are needed in Southwest Asia in six days for a 90-day rotation. Can you go?” With no emotion in his voice or without even looking up, the chief replies, “I put on my uniform this morning, didn’t I?” The colonel is taken aback – the chief doesn’t normally talk in riddles. Has this veteran of 28 years finally gone off the deep end? The wise old protector of the enlisted corps smiles and begins to explain.
“I made a promise to myself more than 20 years ago that I would only put this uniform on as long as I’m available for duty.” While this may seem obvious to some Air Force members, it seems to completely escape others. Available for duty means more than the desire to negotiate and select the premium assignments or choice TDYs.
Available for duty requires us to go any place in the world the President or officers appointed over us determines, at any given time. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t have or receive our preferences. It does mean we’ll go when and where we are needed and called.
This approach may seem overly simplistic; however, upon further review I think everyone can agree, when it comes to defining service to our country, the answer is just that simple. In today’s world of “what can you do for me?” it’s easy to lose sight of what “service to our country” is all about. Service goes far beyond the individual; it affects the well-being of our nation. Sitting at home it is easy to forget the sacrifices we agree to endure in service of our country. Deployed to Southwest Asia, Italy or Bosnia, the sacrifices become much clearer. The bottom line is today we are an “all-volunteer force”. Our force has been reduced by 30 percent in the last five years while it remains a highly mobilized, continually-tasked organization. Everyone is vital to its continued success.
The Air Force will go on tomorrow with or without any single one of us; however, the efficiency of any one of its specific units may be adversely affected by the loss of only a few. All of us have the responsibility to report our availability for duty. If someone has a special family problem or special circumstance that precludes them from being available, they need to report it immediately and especially prior to being deployed. If any single member does not deploy when called upon, another member is forced to fill the slot. Anytime someone can’t or will not deploy, the ripple effect is felt throughout the Air Force. Everyone’s family would like them to be home for the holidays. I can’t think of anyone who would intentionally miss their child’s graduation. We’re all aware of the pain of losing a loved one is compounded by the grief of not being at their side in the final moments. Military members are asked to sacrifice all of this continuously. What we must remember is that we are serving our nation and we are all volunteers. It is not easy-no one said it would be. The leadership of our country depends on all of us to take a good look in the mirror and ask “am I available for duty?” If the answer is yes, then continue as the true professional you are expected to be. If the answer is no, you need to immediately notify your supervisor or commander. Your next step is determine if your non-availability is temporary or permanent. You then face the toughest question: should you resign, separate or retire? There are no pat answers.
Everyone must decide for themselves. Just as the chief, I too put on my uniform today and I am available for duty.
TOP STORY>>Month of the Military Child: New Parent Support program available
The New Parent Suport Program offers military families a program designed to educate and support to parents during pregnancy and the first years of their child’s life. The program is available to military and family members who are pregnant and/or any family with children up to three years old. Family members must be eligible for treatment at the medical treatment facility on base.
Benefits for participating in the program include:
The What to Expect teaching series, certificates for Give Parents a Break, breastfeeding support and educational classes or visits with a registered nurse. The program also offers information on nutrition, child growth and development, child proofing one’s home, family relations and personal needs.
Other support areas include:
The Airmen & Family Readiness Center, which offers a Bundles for Babies class every first Tuesday of the month from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. While there, parents receive a free package full of infant necessities just for attending.
The base Women Infant and Chidren office gives nutritional couseling and breastfeeding support classes.
Playgroups at the Thomas Community and Activities Center are offered Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
For more information on any of the programs mentioned or other options, contact Mamye Miles at 501-987-7377.
Benefits for participating in the program include:
The What to Expect teaching series, certificates for Give Parents a Break, breastfeeding support and educational classes or visits with a registered nurse. The program also offers information on nutrition, child growth and development, child proofing one’s home, family relations and personal needs.
Other support areas include:
The Airmen & Family Readiness Center, which offers a Bundles for Babies class every first Tuesday of the month from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. While there, parents receive a free package full of infant necessities just for attending.
The base Women Infant and Chidren office gives nutritional couseling and breastfeeding support classes.
Playgroups at the Thomas Community and Activities Center are offered Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
For more information on any of the programs mentioned or other options, contact Mamye Miles at 501-987-7377.
TOP STORY>>24/7 fitness now available for DoD civilians, dependents
By 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
A 24 hour/seven days a week fitness center began at Little Rock Air Force Base’s fitness center Feb. 15. Sign-up for the program began Feb. 4.
The new modification to the program is part of a Little Rock AFB initiative to enhance the morale, welfare and recreation for Airmen on base. During several forums, individuals expressed interest in expanding the service beyond just military members. Now, in addition to military members with a common access card, dependents aged 18 and older and DoD civilians are currently able to participate in the fitness center’s 24 hour fitness program.
“This is all part of Services’ Transformation, and we’re hoping to provide services beyond our man-power working capabilities,” said Lt. Col. Veronica Anteola, 19th FSS commander. “So by opening it 24/7... It gives (base Airmen and their dependents) the opportunity to work out a lot more than they might have.”
Participants will need to sign a statement of understanding, similar to the one the military members are required to sign. People that sign up will have their Common Access Cards or dependent ID cards registered so that their cards can be scanned at the front door to gain access to the fitness center. The fitness center is not staffed overnight so the base has taken extra measures to ensure the safety and security of participants.
“Security and safety are some of our main concerns with 24/7 fitness,” said Anteola. To increase security, the fitness center has installed 30 cameras in the facility as well as three automated external defibrillators and the emergency blue phones.
The majority of the facility is available during the unmanned time just like during the day, said Anteola. “Everything is open except for our offices, our locker rooms, and our saunas,” she said. “We want to make sure those areas that we can’t get the cameras in are locked and secure. Bathrooms will be open, but for the most part everything else will be available to them.”
This base is a test base for the 24/7 fitnesscenter program. We already have 1,318 Team Little Rock members signed up and have shown a 15 percent increase in usage during the unmanned time. Feedback should be via ICE (Interactive Customer Evaluation, http://www.rockinattherock.com/Fitness_Center.shtml) or directly to the fitness center staff at 987-7716.
“We are excited to hear about everyone’s feedback. It is a critical part of this test phase to see if it’s something the rest of the Air Force plans on doing,” said Anteola.
A 24 hour/seven days a week fitness center began at Little Rock Air Force Base’s fitness center Feb. 15. Sign-up for the program began Feb. 4.
The new modification to the program is part of a Little Rock AFB initiative to enhance the morale, welfare and recreation for Airmen on base. During several forums, individuals expressed interest in expanding the service beyond just military members. Now, in addition to military members with a common access card, dependents aged 18 and older and DoD civilians are currently able to participate in the fitness center’s 24 hour fitness program.
“This is all part of Services’ Transformation, and we’re hoping to provide services beyond our man-power working capabilities,” said Lt. Col. Veronica Anteola, 19th FSS commander. “So by opening it 24/7... It gives (base Airmen and their dependents) the opportunity to work out a lot more than they might have.”
Participants will need to sign a statement of understanding, similar to the one the military members are required to sign. People that sign up will have their Common Access Cards or dependent ID cards registered so that their cards can be scanned at the front door to gain access to the fitness center. The fitness center is not staffed overnight so the base has taken extra measures to ensure the safety and security of participants.
“Security and safety are some of our main concerns with 24/7 fitness,” said Anteola. To increase security, the fitness center has installed 30 cameras in the facility as well as three automated external defibrillators and the emergency blue phones.
The majority of the facility is available during the unmanned time just like during the day, said Anteola. “Everything is open except for our offices, our locker rooms, and our saunas,” she said. “We want to make sure those areas that we can’t get the cameras in are locked and secure. Bathrooms will be open, but for the most part everything else will be available to them.”
This base is a test base for the 24/7 fitnesscenter program. We already have 1,318 Team Little Rock members signed up and have shown a 15 percent increase in usage during the unmanned time. Feedback should be via ICE (Interactive Customer Evaluation, http://www.rockinattherock.com/Fitness_Center.shtml) or directly to the fitness center staff at 987-7716.
“We are excited to hear about everyone’s feedback. It is a critical part of this test phase to see if it’s something the rest of the Air Force plans on doing,” said Anteola.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
COMMENTARY>>White space
By Col Thomas Crimmins
19th AW Vice Commander
In the Air Force we have quite a few buzzwords, such as, resiliency, wingman, excellence, and the latest addition, sequestration. These may be “buzzwords,” however; they all have a variety of meanings and impact Airmen in different ways.
What does sequestration mean to you? For civilian personnel, it signifies the potential for furloughs, and for Airmen it means less flying and operating with fewer resources. Ultimately for all Team Little Rock members, sequestration is going to open up some “white space.” “White space” is also a recent Air Force buzzword, and refers to unscheduled, or open time on one’s calendar.
How this white space is used can make the difference between seeing sequestration as a total negative or trying to make some lemonade out of lemons.
Aircrew and maintenance will see a 35 percent decrease in flying hours. This is a time that can be used for personal accountability and self-development, not a time to sit around your shop or ops desk and say “I have nothing to do.” Set achievable goals, and accomplish the important tasks that we sometimes do not have time for when the ops tempo is high.
Have you been talking about starting that CCAF, bachelor degree or masters for a few years? Now is the time. Do you remember the last time you did a CBT? Stay current, because when flight hours and funding return, you will be busy. Has your New Year’s resolution to get in shape faded recently? Fill your “white space” with PT and be fit to fight. Do you need help with finances and never had time to take a class before? Fill that white space and sign up now!
There are many ways to productively spend your time. Put down your smart phone and look for volunteer opportunities or be a project officer for a base event. Find ways to broaden yourself as an Airman. None of us just fly planes, turn wrenches, defend the base, draw blood, load pallets, fix internet connections or whatever your contribution to the Team Little Rock mission may be. I urge you to effectively meet your daily tasks by knowing what role you play as an individual and as a member of the greatest Air Force in the world. Only you can take charge of your own career, especially career broadening. Leaders, missions and budgets may change but Airmen should answer the call to serve by looking at what they do through a wide lens. As Mobility Airmen, we are a supporting, well-rounded force that must be able to adapt to diverse environments when we get the call.
The great pioneers of our Air Force were exceptional men and women dedicated to making things better. Their bold, innovative, risk-taking culture is what made our Air Force great. We must continue that culture and remember that it has no AFSC, perseveres during trying times and is not limited to any one component, it is Total Force. Be a bold, innovative Airman by taking advantage of the “opportunities” that sequestration has served us.
Also, during this time we must concentrate on the well-being of Team Little Rock, whether that is safe effective operations, taking a stance against alcohol-related incidents, ensuring all Airmen are treated with dignity and respect and being a good wingman during trying financial times. I’ve decided to fill some of my new “white space” by getting out from behind my desk to interact with Airmen in the work center, rather than let the “bureaucracy” fill it with more meetings, as would occur if I didn’t aggressively fight back. In this way, sequestration has allowed me to recharge my battery thanks to “Airman power.”
Lastly, I would like to address responsible alcohol consumption. We are inoculated from day one as Airmen that we must be a good wingman. A wingman, not only, ensures his or her TLR member is safe on the flightline or wearing proper personal protection gear on a motorcycle, but also, sets the example. The term Wingman stems from a time-honored tradition that essentially says a lead pilot will never lose his/her Wingman. It’s a promise, a pledge, a commitment between Airmen. But being a good Wingman also means that when “two” tells lead their engine is on fire, lead’s responsibility is to heed the warning. If your wingman steps in to help you out of a bad situation, you must listen! Wingman responsibility goes in both directions to be effective.
All TLR members are held to a higher standard in our personal and professional lives. Remember, even when you are not wearing the uniform, you still represent and are a member of the United States Air Force.
Team Little Rock, spring is upon us. Do the right thing by being a good wingman, creating an environment of mutual respect and knowing how you answer the call every day. Take advantage of the unique times we live in, and fill the resulting “white space” constructively. Thank you for all you do for your nation; it is an honor to serve alongside you.
19th AW Vice Commander
In the Air Force we have quite a few buzzwords, such as, resiliency, wingman, excellence, and the latest addition, sequestration. These may be “buzzwords,” however; they all have a variety of meanings and impact Airmen in different ways.
What does sequestration mean to you? For civilian personnel, it signifies the potential for furloughs, and for Airmen it means less flying and operating with fewer resources. Ultimately for all Team Little Rock members, sequestration is going to open up some “white space.” “White space” is also a recent Air Force buzzword, and refers to unscheduled, or open time on one’s calendar.
How this white space is used can make the difference between seeing sequestration as a total negative or trying to make some lemonade out of lemons.
Aircrew and maintenance will see a 35 percent decrease in flying hours. This is a time that can be used for personal accountability and self-development, not a time to sit around your shop or ops desk and say “I have nothing to do.” Set achievable goals, and accomplish the important tasks that we sometimes do not have time for when the ops tempo is high.
Have you been talking about starting that CCAF, bachelor degree or masters for a few years? Now is the time. Do you remember the last time you did a CBT? Stay current, because when flight hours and funding return, you will be busy. Has your New Year’s resolution to get in shape faded recently? Fill your “white space” with PT and be fit to fight. Do you need help with finances and never had time to take a class before? Fill that white space and sign up now!
There are many ways to productively spend your time. Put down your smart phone and look for volunteer opportunities or be a project officer for a base event. Find ways to broaden yourself as an Airman. None of us just fly planes, turn wrenches, defend the base, draw blood, load pallets, fix internet connections or whatever your contribution to the Team Little Rock mission may be. I urge you to effectively meet your daily tasks by knowing what role you play as an individual and as a member of the greatest Air Force in the world. Only you can take charge of your own career, especially career broadening. Leaders, missions and budgets may change but Airmen should answer the call to serve by looking at what they do through a wide lens. As Mobility Airmen, we are a supporting, well-rounded force that must be able to adapt to diverse environments when we get the call.
The great pioneers of our Air Force were exceptional men and women dedicated to making things better. Their bold, innovative, risk-taking culture is what made our Air Force great. We must continue that culture and remember that it has no AFSC, perseveres during trying times and is not limited to any one component, it is Total Force. Be a bold, innovative Airman by taking advantage of the “opportunities” that sequestration has served us.
Also, during this time we must concentrate on the well-being of Team Little Rock, whether that is safe effective operations, taking a stance against alcohol-related incidents, ensuring all Airmen are treated with dignity and respect and being a good wingman during trying financial times. I’ve decided to fill some of my new “white space” by getting out from behind my desk to interact with Airmen in the work center, rather than let the “bureaucracy” fill it with more meetings, as would occur if I didn’t aggressively fight back. In this way, sequestration has allowed me to recharge my battery thanks to “Airman power.”
Lastly, I would like to address responsible alcohol consumption. We are inoculated from day one as Airmen that we must be a good wingman. A wingman, not only, ensures his or her TLR member is safe on the flightline or wearing proper personal protection gear on a motorcycle, but also, sets the example. The term Wingman stems from a time-honored tradition that essentially says a lead pilot will never lose his/her Wingman. It’s a promise, a pledge, a commitment between Airmen. But being a good Wingman also means that when “two” tells lead their engine is on fire, lead’s responsibility is to heed the warning. If your wingman steps in to help you out of a bad situation, you must listen! Wingman responsibility goes in both directions to be effective.
All TLR members are held to a higher standard in our personal and professional lives. Remember, even when you are not wearing the uniform, you still represent and are a member of the United States Air Force.
Team Little Rock, spring is upon us. Do the right thing by being a good wingman, creating an environment of mutual respect and knowing how you answer the call every day. Take advantage of the unique times we live in, and fill the resulting “white space” constructively. Thank you for all you do for your nation; it is an honor to serve alongside you.
top story>>Travel Feature: Ozark, Ark.
Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Russ Scalf
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
This is a new feature series by the 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs. The intent is to inform Team Little Rock about interesting travel opportunities and activities happening around the state and nearby. If you have suggestions or comments, contact the PA office at 987-3601.
The sleepy city of Ozark, an access point to the Ozark National Forest, is a beautiful area to spend a weekend exploring the highways and byways of western Arkansas.
Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, or a connoisseur of finer things, this area has something for you.
My first stop was to Outdoor Recreation. I picked up an A-Liner camper, for a scant $45 per night, and headed west on Interstate 40 for an adventure-filled weekend.
The trip itself was a quick two-and-a-half hour hustle from the gates of Little Rock Air Force Base. When I exited the highway, I found myself in the middle of Arkansas wine country. Arkansas happens to be the oldest and largest grape producing state in the southern United States. Whether you enjoy wine, food or history, the wineries are a great stop to learn more about Arkansas, and the award-winning wines produced here.
With my stomach full, and sobriety fully intact, I jumped back in my truck and drove a country road a few miles to downtown Ozark to see what the town of approximately 3,500 people had to offer.
Downtown was like stepping back in time, when things were seemingly more simple and quiet. Accentuated by beautiful murals on the buildings, the old town charm was in full effect. The city square is home to a number of historic sites, the courthouse and a number of small gift and antique shops. The jewel of the city is essentially its location. Saddling the Arkansas River, the view near the Arkansas River Bridge is stunning, especially in the evening while illuminated and enhancing the already scenic setting.
As dusk began to take hold, I hopped back into my truck and headed north into the Ozark National Forest to find a place to camp. The route to my destination was along famed Arkansas Highway 23, otherwise known as the Pig Trail Scenic Byway. The road received this humorous moniker allegedly for its steep hills and hairpin turns.
At dark, I made my camp along the shores of the Mulberry River. A beautiful and meandering stream, it steadily makes its way through the heart of the forest. Designated a National Wild and Scenic River, the waterway is a tributary of the Arkansas River and offers a multitude of outdoors adventures. There are several local canoe and rafting outfitters, or if you prefer the slow lane, fishing for bass and panfish is also popular.
On day two, I unloaded my four-wheeler from the truck, and set out to explore the area. Much of the Ozark National Forest is all-terrain vehicle friendly, but riders should obtain a map online from the U.S. Forest Service outlining areas and roads approved for use. Additionally, there are nearby ATV parks, such as Byrd’s Outdoor Adventure Center. This particular weekend Byrd’s was hosting a spring ATV rally. Riders from Arkansas and surrounding states had descended into the valley for mud-slinging, off road-escapades. The trails varied in difficulty level, from beginner to advanced. Riders should speak with their unit safety representatives to ensure they have completed the necessary safety forms, and taken the appropriate precautions.
After a full day of riding, clean clothes and a hot plate were in order. I moseyed further down Arkansas Highway 215 to the tiny town of Oark, home of the Oark General Store. This small treasure, listed in the Arkansas Register of Historic Places, lays its claim to fame for being the oldest continually operating general store in Arkansas and, according to owner Brian Eisele, ‘one heck of a burger.’
“My wife, Reagan, and I both worked in Washington D.C.,” said, Eisele. “We bought this place last May and it’s like living in a outdoorsman’s paradise. Living here is like a snapshot of what living in America was like 40 years ago. This is a true-blue community.”
The next morning I loaded my ATV, and packed up the camper. My short-lived, and highly relaxing weekend had recharged my batteries and renewed my spirit.
All totaled I spent $90 to rent a camper, $20 to camp, $50 on gas for my truck and four-wheeler, $20 for warm meals, and $15 to ride on private trails. That’s under $200 for a weekend of fun, food and adventure, for anyone keeping track. Some of those costs could have been easily reduced, had I been more social and invited friends to ride along, or been willing to sleep in my too much assembly-required tent.
What can’t be calculated was the fun I had exploring a new area and making friends along the trail. I’m always amazed by the kindliness of our Arkansan hosts, and their willingness to share the spots and stories that make this state naturally adventurous.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
This is a new feature series by the 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs. The intent is to inform Team Little Rock about interesting travel opportunities and activities happening around the state and nearby. If you have suggestions or comments, contact the PA office at 987-3601.
The sleepy city of Ozark, an access point to the Ozark National Forest, is a beautiful area to spend a weekend exploring the highways and byways of western Arkansas.
Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, or a connoisseur of finer things, this area has something for you.
My first stop was to Outdoor Recreation. I picked up an A-Liner camper, for a scant $45 per night, and headed west on Interstate 40 for an adventure-filled weekend.
The trip itself was a quick two-and-a-half hour hustle from the gates of Little Rock Air Force Base. When I exited the highway, I found myself in the middle of Arkansas wine country. Arkansas happens to be the oldest and largest grape producing state in the southern United States. Whether you enjoy wine, food or history, the wineries are a great stop to learn more about Arkansas, and the award-winning wines produced here.
With my stomach full, and sobriety fully intact, I jumped back in my truck and drove a country road a few miles to downtown Ozark to see what the town of approximately 3,500 people had to offer.
Downtown was like stepping back in time, when things were seemingly more simple and quiet. Accentuated by beautiful murals on the buildings, the old town charm was in full effect. The city square is home to a number of historic sites, the courthouse and a number of small gift and antique shops. The jewel of the city is essentially its location. Saddling the Arkansas River, the view near the Arkansas River Bridge is stunning, especially in the evening while illuminated and enhancing the already scenic setting.
As dusk began to take hold, I hopped back into my truck and headed north into the Ozark National Forest to find a place to camp. The route to my destination was along famed Arkansas Highway 23, otherwise known as the Pig Trail Scenic Byway. The road received this humorous moniker allegedly for its steep hills and hairpin turns.
At dark, I made my camp along the shores of the Mulberry River. A beautiful and meandering stream, it steadily makes its way through the heart of the forest. Designated a National Wild and Scenic River, the waterway is a tributary of the Arkansas River and offers a multitude of outdoors adventures. There are several local canoe and rafting outfitters, or if you prefer the slow lane, fishing for bass and panfish is also popular.
On day two, I unloaded my four-wheeler from the truck, and set out to explore the area. Much of the Ozark National Forest is all-terrain vehicle friendly, but riders should obtain a map online from the U.S. Forest Service outlining areas and roads approved for use. Additionally, there are nearby ATV parks, such as Byrd’s Outdoor Adventure Center. This particular weekend Byrd’s was hosting a spring ATV rally. Riders from Arkansas and surrounding states had descended into the valley for mud-slinging, off road-escapades. The trails varied in difficulty level, from beginner to advanced. Riders should speak with their unit safety representatives to ensure they have completed the necessary safety forms, and taken the appropriate precautions.
After a full day of riding, clean clothes and a hot plate were in order. I moseyed further down Arkansas Highway 215 to the tiny town of Oark, home of the Oark General Store. This small treasure, listed in the Arkansas Register of Historic Places, lays its claim to fame for being the oldest continually operating general store in Arkansas and, according to owner Brian Eisele, ‘one heck of a burger.’
“My wife, Reagan, and I both worked in Washington D.C.,” said, Eisele. “We bought this place last May and it’s like living in a outdoorsman’s paradise. Living here is like a snapshot of what living in America was like 40 years ago. This is a true-blue community.”
The next morning I loaded my ATV, and packed up the camper. My short-lived, and highly relaxing weekend had recharged my batteries and renewed my spirit.
All totaled I spent $90 to rent a camper, $20 to camp, $50 on gas for my truck and four-wheeler, $20 for warm meals, and $15 to ride on private trails. That’s under $200 for a weekend of fun, food and adventure, for anyone keeping track. Some of those costs could have been easily reduced, had I been more social and invited friends to ride along, or been willing to sleep in my too much assembly-required tent.
What can’t be calculated was the fun I had exploring a new area and making friends along the trail. I’m always amazed by the kindliness of our Arkansan hosts, and their willingness to share the spots and stories that make this state naturally adventurous.
TOP STORY>>Pay it forward
By Airman 1st Class Kaylee Clark
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Every year bluesuiters open their wallets and hearts by donating to the Air Force Assistance Fund drive. This year, Team Little Rock members went above and beyond to support their fellow wingmen and their families.
Most unblinkingly give without ever expecting to need a helping hand from the attribution.
Joleen Baker, 19th Equipment Maintenance Squadron secretary, knows the impact the AFAF can have on Airmen and their families when they are in need. Joleen has helped the AFAF generate more than $650,000 for the Air Force Assistance Fund in the past six years. “They helped our family, so I want to help them,” Joleen said.
Joleen and her husband, Staff Sgt. Joshua Baker, a 50th Airlift Squadron loadmaster, were helped by the AFAF shortly after the birth of their son, Jimmy, in 2007. While stationed at Kadena Air Base, Japan, they were the first family in memory to have a baby born with cleft lip and cleft palate at the U.S. Naval Hospital, Okinawa. As a young family, the entire situation was daunting and they didn’t really know where to turn.
The Bakers went to Joshua’s first sergeant and learned that the AFAF was there to help them out.
Along with first sergeants, there are multiple avenues on base such as chaplains and the Airmen and Family Readiness Center for Airmen to receive resourceful information.
“It’s overwhelming to know that our Airmen put so much money into a program that helps other Airmen,” Joleen said.
The Bakers received a medical grant for more than $3,500, which meant there was no payback required. The funds were used to help pay for expenses for Jimmy to be seen by specialists at Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii.
Joleen is proud to serve with such selfless givers.
“When you give to the AFAF, you are helping military families,” she said. “You never know when the Airman in the cubicle next to you or sitting next to you at commander’s call will need help.”
Senior Master Sgt. Eric Holland one of the main points of contact said, “Despite the economy’s financial struggles our Airmen have expanded their generosity and exceeded last years goal.”
The AFAF has four organizations to which you can donate: the Air Force Aid Society, Lemay Foundation, Air Force Enlisted Village, Air Force Villages Charitable Foundation.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Every year bluesuiters open their wallets and hearts by donating to the Air Force Assistance Fund drive. This year, Team Little Rock members went above and beyond to support their fellow wingmen and their families.
Most unblinkingly give without ever expecting to need a helping hand from the attribution.
Joleen Baker, 19th Equipment Maintenance Squadron secretary, knows the impact the AFAF can have on Airmen and their families when they are in need. Joleen has helped the AFAF generate more than $650,000 for the Air Force Assistance Fund in the past six years. “They helped our family, so I want to help them,” Joleen said.
Joleen and her husband, Staff Sgt. Joshua Baker, a 50th Airlift Squadron loadmaster, were helped by the AFAF shortly after the birth of their son, Jimmy, in 2007. While stationed at Kadena Air Base, Japan, they were the first family in memory to have a baby born with cleft lip and cleft palate at the U.S. Naval Hospital, Okinawa. As a young family, the entire situation was daunting and they didn’t really know where to turn.
The Bakers went to Joshua’s first sergeant and learned that the AFAF was there to help them out.
Along with first sergeants, there are multiple avenues on base such as chaplains and the Airmen and Family Readiness Center for Airmen to receive resourceful information.
“It’s overwhelming to know that our Airmen put so much money into a program that helps other Airmen,” Joleen said.
The Bakers received a medical grant for more than $3,500, which meant there was no payback required. The funds were used to help pay for expenses for Jimmy to be seen by specialists at Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii.
Joleen is proud to serve with such selfless givers.
“When you give to the AFAF, you are helping military families,” she said. “You never know when the Airman in the cubicle next to you or sitting next to you at commander’s call will need help.”
Senior Master Sgt. Eric Holland one of the main points of contact said, “Despite the economy’s financial struggles our Airmen have expanded their generosity and exceeded last years goal.”
The AFAF has four organizations to which you can donate: the Air Force Aid Society, Lemay Foundation, Air Force Enlisted Village, Air Force Villages Charitable Foundation.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
BRIEFS >> 04-26-13
CHANGE OF COMMAND SCHEDULED
The 62nd Airlift Squadron Change of Command ceremony is at 10 a.m. May 2 in Hangar 1080. Lt. Col. James Schartz will assume command from Lt. Col. Michael Nelson. Dress is uniform of the day for attendees.
SAVE THE DATE
DEA National Take Back Day, a one day initiative for the public to surrender their expired/unused medications to the local law enforcement for destruction, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the Base Exchange lobby area. For more information, visit www.artakeback.org.
DEDICATION MAY 3
The base will be dedicating the B-58 Hustler on May 3 at 3 p.m. at Heritage Park.
MEMORIAL 5K + 1
There will be a Brian Valley Memorial 5K tomorrow. There is the potential for traffic delays that morning from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Expect traffic delays at the Jacksonville Little Rock AFB University Center and on Vandenberg Blvd., Marshall Road, and McArthur Drive, these roads will be down to one lane.
For more information, visit www.bvmemorial.com.
CHIEF’S GROUP 5K
The Little Rock Chief’s Group has a 5K Challenge scheduled for May 3 at the small base lake pavilion. Registration begins at 9:45 a.m. and the run begins at 10:45 p.m. A burger burn will follow the run. Those bringing $30 in pledges will receive a free T-shirt, lunch and a ticket for a chance to win prizes. All proceeds are donated back to base programs. it is open to all officers, enlisted, civilian and family members. The age groups are 17 and under, 18 to 27, 28 to 35, 36 to 42 and 43 and over. For more information, contact any Little Rock AFB Chief.
The 62nd Airlift Squadron Change of Command ceremony is at 10 a.m. May 2 in Hangar 1080. Lt. Col. James Schartz will assume command from Lt. Col. Michael Nelson. Dress is uniform of the day for attendees.
SAVE THE DATE
DEA National Take Back Day, a one day initiative for the public to surrender their expired/unused medications to the local law enforcement for destruction, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the Base Exchange lobby area. For more information, visit www.artakeback.org.
DEDICATION MAY 3
The base will be dedicating the B-58 Hustler on May 3 at 3 p.m. at Heritage Park.
MEMORIAL 5K + 1
There will be a Brian Valley Memorial 5K tomorrow. There is the potential for traffic delays that morning from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Expect traffic delays at the Jacksonville Little Rock AFB University Center and on Vandenberg Blvd., Marshall Road, and McArthur Drive, these roads will be down to one lane.
For more information, visit www.bvmemorial.com.
CHIEF’S GROUP 5K
The Little Rock Chief’s Group has a 5K Challenge scheduled for May 3 at the small base lake pavilion. Registration begins at 9:45 a.m. and the run begins at 10:45 p.m. A burger burn will follow the run. Those bringing $30 in pledges will receive a free T-shirt, lunch and a ticket for a chance to win prizes. All proceeds are donated back to base programs. it is open to all officers, enlisted, civilian and family members. The age groups are 17 and under, 18 to 27, 28 to 35, 36 to 42 and 43 and over. For more information, contact any Little Rock AFB Chief.
CLASSIFIEDS >> 04-26-13
ANNOUNCEMENTS
THE COMBAT AIRLIFTER CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT will take ads by phone from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday 982-9421, or you may mail your ad to 404 Graham Rd., Jacksonville, Ark. 72078. You may also e-mail them to combatairlifterclassifieds@arkansasleader.com Deadline to advertise in Friday's issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday.
IF YOU saw a man fall at a restaurant in the River Market on Friday, 3/15/13, please call (501) 348-9583 & leave your name & number.
HELP WANTED
INSURANCE AGENTS, full or part-time, great companies, unlimited income, work your own hours, great for ex-military. Call (501) 590-7705 for interview.
ATTN. STUTTGART AREA! Food Production Operators needed - 1 yr. prev. exp. prfrd. Full Time. Alternating swing shift 7-7. Pay $10 to start. Apply online @ www.premierstaffinginc.com & call for appt. (501) 492-2750. EOE
MAJOR NLR MFG HIRING NOW! Outstanding opportunity avail now for exp'd Cherry Pickers, Forklift Drivers, Machine Operators, Assemblers, & Industrial Painters. 1st & 2nd shifts avail. Pay $11-$15 DOE. Qualified candidates must have a stable work history; pass a DS & BKGD check. Apply @ www.premierstaffinginc.com then call 501-492-2750 for an appt. EOE.
YARD SALES
GARAGE SALE, 4/27, 39 Hickory Bend, Greystone, Cabot. Kitchen items, yard tools, lawn mower, plants and more.
YARD SALE, 4/26 & 27, 7 am-noon, 18 Amy St., Cabot, across from skating rink.
YARD SALE, 4/26 & 27, 831 N. Beech St., Beebe.
YARD SALE, 4/27, 7 am-? 147 Weathering Dr., Austin.
YARD SALE, 4/27, 7 am-2 pm, Collenwood Subdv., 998 Jamestown Cir., Jax.
GARAGE SALE, 4/27, all day, 3906 Rope Trail, Jax. Vintage glass, collectibles, exercise equipment, furniture.
HORSES
HORSES: LUCKY Acres Boarding Stable, TLC for your horse, box stalls and paddocks, clean pastures, indoor and outdoor arenas, riding instruction and training program. Dressage our specialty. (501) 988-2458.
PETS
2 DOGS, free to good home, shepherd/collie mix & terrier mix. (501) 650-0184 or (501) 749-6427.
AQUARIUM, 55 gallon w/stand & accessories, $150. (501) 259-1395.
AUTOS/ACCESSORIES
2001 CHRYSLER PT Cruiser, very good condition, 111,000 miles, P/W & DL, A/C, sun roof, partial leather seats, CD player, no major mechanical problems, very minor cosmetic damage, $3,500 obo. (907) 230-6430, Danny.
2010 MUSTANG Convertible, torch red, black top, 4.0 V-6, 5 spd. auto., 20" blackout-offset Ford racing wheels, 37,000 miles, performance intake/exhaust, excellent condition, $19,800. (501) 231-6184.
2008 FORD Expedition EL, immaculate condition, loaded, serviced regularly, must see to believe, 31,156 miles, $26,000. Call/text (501) 425-2799.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLES
2008 HONDA CBR600RR, 8,799 miles, $7,000 obo. (918) 978-5012.
1988 17' Traveller, 40 hp. Johnson (fully rebuilt lower unit), TM, 2 new batteries, full easy to install/remove bow fishing setup: 4 kw generator (1 yr. warranty), 500w halogens (7), many extras, $5,000 firm. (989) 413-3378.
2009 HONDA CBR600RR, 5,000 miles, clean, never dropped or laid down, lots of extras, $7,000 obo. (414) 313-9517.
ITEMS FOR SALE
BOWFLEX XTREME SE, w/instructional video & all accessories, $575 obo.; speaker box for 2-12" speakers, $125 obo. Pics avail. Call/text (931) 332-0084.
12x20 WOOD storage building, $3,000 obo. (501) 628-8750, Cabot.
LUDWIG DRUM set, 5-pc. w/hi-hat, crash/ride cymbal, orig. plus dbl. base pedals, very good condition, $350. (501) 259-8871.
FURNITURE
QUEEN BED, box springs & frame, great condition, $100. (501) 680-6777, Melissa.
WASHER & dryer, $300 for set; electric stove, $400; couch, $100. (501) 551-1266.
HOUSES FOR RENT
JACKSONVILLE: 1 bedroom house, carport, storage area, washer/dryer hookups, $400 mo., $400 dep. (501) 833-3781.
3 BEDROOM, 2 bath, living room, den with fireplace, kitchen with stove, refrigerator & dishwasher, laundry area, 2-car garage, fenced backyard, pets considered with non-refundable pet deposit. Close to air base, Subdivision, on cul-de-sac. $975 + deposit. Call (501) 529-7767 or (501) 529-7624.
HOME FOR rent: 3 BR, 2 1/2 BA, 5 miles from back of air base. 1 acre lot. Large shop, $925 month. (501) 626-6799.
3 bedroom 2 bath mobile home, 1.5 miles off 107, late model, nice front porch. Also 2 bedroom 1 bath, on Hwy. 107, newly remodeled, water & gas paid, no mowing. Call Ed 501-988-5187.
JACKSONVILLE: TWO bedroom, one bath w/carport and fenced backyard, $425 mo., 1 yr. lease. Call Travis, 590-1698.
FOR RENT: 3 bedroom, 2 bath house, very nice. 31 Parkview, Cabot. $850 month, $550 deposit. Call Richard 870-329-0019.
HOUSES FOR SALE
Brand new all brick 4 Bedroom 2 Bath, 1900 sq ft home in Base Meadows Subdivision in Jacksonville. Cul-de-sac lot backs up to 50' of wooded space with a creek! Go here for details. http://littlerock.craigslist.org/reo/3753569051.html (501) 563-0420.
SPORTS >> CAF: Roller derby league helps Airmen build Social Pillar
By Airman 1st Class Kaylee Clark
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
One may look at a group of women dressed in skating gear and think, “they’re harmless.” Armed with knee pads, helmets and mouthguards, when these ladies hit the hardwood floor of the rink, they are ready for war and out for blood.
Roller derby is one of the fastest growing women’s sport in the U.S. and in Little Rock, Ark. Girls Rollin’ In The South, (GRITS), is one of the local roller derby leagues where women from different walks of life come together with one common purpose - skate and skate hard.
The women wear unique athletic uniforms ranging from fishnet stockings to colorful knee-high socks. Each skater is given a skater name the represents their skating style and/or attitude. Skaters cannot choose their own names; they have to earn them from other teammates or coaches. The names are useful for the players during the bouts when they call on each other for different plays and maneuvers.
Staff Sgt. Amanda Chelchowski, the 19th Airlift Wing command chief executive assistant and BreakNeck Brawler blocker, was given her name, “Reprimanda” to identify with her military life and her first name. The BreakNeck Brawlers is a team under the GRITS league.
Chelchowski, who began her first roller derby season this year, said roller derby is an escape from the real world, and she gets to practice and play with women from all different lifestyles.
“It has been an awesome experience so far, and I would encourage any female to come out and try it,” said Chelchowski.
The league provides a chance for people to bond with others, reach out and connect, strengthening and reinforcing social bonds required for all Airmen. However, roller derby isn’t just a way to be a part of a team, it also gives these women a chance to work out. To compete in a roller derby bout, one has to pass three tests: a written test, laps test and a basic fundamentals test.
Chelchowski said, “You have to prepare and be in shape for these tests just as you would be for a physical training test for the military.”
The BreakNeck Brawlers practice two to three times a week because newcomers join each week. Most practices are held at the Joyland Skating Rink in Cabot, Ark. The local bouts are held in the University of Arkansas at Little Rock field house.
Christy Hendricks, the Combat Airlifter managing editor on base, is a member and co-founder of the league.
Hendricks said, “The girls on the team have become like family to me; we take care of each other.”
The roller derby league is a family - friendly association. Families can bring their children to watch the bouts as well as the practices.
For more information, check out the Girls Rollin’ In The South Facebook page or catch the team in action Saturday at the University of Arkansas Field House in Little Rock.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
One may look at a group of women dressed in skating gear and think, “they’re harmless.” Armed with knee pads, helmets and mouthguards, when these ladies hit the hardwood floor of the rink, they are ready for war and out for blood.
Roller derby is one of the fastest growing women’s sport in the U.S. and in Little Rock, Ark. Girls Rollin’ In The South, (GRITS), is one of the local roller derby leagues where women from different walks of life come together with one common purpose - skate and skate hard.
The women wear unique athletic uniforms ranging from fishnet stockings to colorful knee-high socks. Each skater is given a skater name the represents their skating style and/or attitude. Skaters cannot choose their own names; they have to earn them from other teammates or coaches. The names are useful for the players during the bouts when they call on each other for different plays and maneuvers.
Staff Sgt. Amanda Chelchowski, the 19th Airlift Wing command chief executive assistant and BreakNeck Brawler blocker, was given her name, “Reprimanda” to identify with her military life and her first name. The BreakNeck Brawlers is a team under the GRITS league.
Chelchowski, who began her first roller derby season this year, said roller derby is an escape from the real world, and she gets to practice and play with women from all different lifestyles.
“It has been an awesome experience so far, and I would encourage any female to come out and try it,” said Chelchowski.
The league provides a chance for people to bond with others, reach out and connect, strengthening and reinforcing social bonds required for all Airmen. However, roller derby isn’t just a way to be a part of a team, it also gives these women a chance to work out. To compete in a roller derby bout, one has to pass three tests: a written test, laps test and a basic fundamentals test.
Chelchowski said, “You have to prepare and be in shape for these tests just as you would be for a physical training test for the military.”
The BreakNeck Brawlers practice two to three times a week because newcomers join each week. Most practices are held at the Joyland Skating Rink in Cabot, Ark. The local bouts are held in the University of Arkansas at Little Rock field house.
Christy Hendricks, the Combat Airlifter managing editor on base, is a member and co-founder of the league.
Hendricks said, “The girls on the team have become like family to me; we take care of each other.”
The roller derby league is a family - friendly association. Families can bring their children to watch the bouts as well as the practices.
For more information, check out the Girls Rollin’ In The South Facebook page or catch the team in action Saturday at the University of Arkansas Field House in Little Rock.
TOP STORY >> Key Spouses support families on base
By Airman 1st Class Cliffton Dolezal
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Surviving the daily grind is no easy feat especially for military families. The Key Spouses Program is an organization that helps military families with everything from attending deployment events and giving out information to referrals and child care.
The Air Force’s Key Spouse program is a commanders’ program and was test driven in 1996 after seeing the success that the Navy had with their own spouse program, the Ombudsman program, which helped promote healthy and self-sufficient families.
“Key spouses are there to take care of the families,” said Kori Ramirez, Airmen and Family Readiness Center community consultant and Key Spouse program manager.
After years of testing the program, the Air Force finally implemented a curriculum of their own in 2009 to train key spouses.
“That’s our part here at the Airmen and Family Readiness Center, to ensure they are all properly trained on key spouse duties such as suicide awareness and the Heartlink program, which is the Air Force’s program to get spouses used to the Air Force,” said Ramirez.
The Key Spouses are there to help find the resources to solve problems so that it doesn’t interfere with the mission.
“We do this so the active duty member deployed down range isn’t having to worrying about issues at home,” said Ramirez. “We are really here to be a face and a name for families to know and come to, so we can help because that’s what we’re here for.”
Before the Key Spouse program, there were no such programs readily available that were installed to get a new Airman and his family used to the Air Force or relief from some of the stresses of dealing with a deployed family member. A lot of Airmen would be calling home from an overseas location trying to get their spouses help or solve issues and it was distracting them from the mission.
“I think that with having structure and a plan in place, everyday life issues can be resolved here on the base, and I think it really makes a big difference,” said Ramirez.
The Key Spouse program here on Little Rock Air Force Base stands at 113 members but is always looking for more volunteers. To get in touch with your unit’s Key Spouse personnel contact your 1st Sgt. or call the Airman and Family Readiness Center at 987-6801.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Surviving the daily grind is no easy feat especially for military families. The Key Spouses Program is an organization that helps military families with everything from attending deployment events and giving out information to referrals and child care.
The Air Force’s Key Spouse program is a commanders’ program and was test driven in 1996 after seeing the success that the Navy had with their own spouse program, the Ombudsman program, which helped promote healthy and self-sufficient families.
“Key spouses are there to take care of the families,” said Kori Ramirez, Airmen and Family Readiness Center community consultant and Key Spouse program manager.
After years of testing the program, the Air Force finally implemented a curriculum of their own in 2009 to train key spouses.
“That’s our part here at the Airmen and Family Readiness Center, to ensure they are all properly trained on key spouse duties such as suicide awareness and the Heartlink program, which is the Air Force’s program to get spouses used to the Air Force,” said Ramirez.
The Key Spouses are there to help find the resources to solve problems so that it doesn’t interfere with the mission.
“We do this so the active duty member deployed down range isn’t having to worrying about issues at home,” said Ramirez. “We are really here to be a face and a name for families to know and come to, so we can help because that’s what we’re here for.”
Before the Key Spouse program, there were no such programs readily available that were installed to get a new Airman and his family used to the Air Force or relief from some of the stresses of dealing with a deployed family member. A lot of Airmen would be calling home from an overseas location trying to get their spouses help or solve issues and it was distracting them from the mission.
“I think that with having structure and a plan in place, everyday life issues can be resolved here on the base, and I think it really makes a big difference,” said Ramirez.
The Key Spouse program here on Little Rock Air Force Base stands at 113 members but is always looking for more volunteers. To get in touch with your unit’s Key Spouse personnel contact your 1st Sgt. or call the Airman and Family Readiness Center at 987-6801.
COMMENTARY >> While times change, resiliency stays the same
By Chief Master Sgt. Benjamin Leal
19th Maintenance Group superintendent
Living in today’s society can be both exciting and challenging, depending on your perspective and state of mind. Growing up as the youngest son of 10 children, my family endured both triumphs and tragedy. As we go through our daily lives we commonly find ourselves in situations that we are unprepared to handle or need support from others.
Prior to joining the military my foundation for dealing with life’s situations came from the fact that my family always supported me in all aspects of my life. When I joined the Air Force 24 years ago, my core foundation of support was gone, and I found myself for the first time learning to deal with life’s struggles on my own.
Today as I talk to our Airmen, I have found that while the issues they face are uniquely different, the concept of dealing with them is basically the same. Last year the Air Force implemented a resiliency training concept that I believe is one of the best Airmen developmental programs seen to date. It incorporates a Comprehensive Airmen Fitness plan that creates a culture where Airmen have the skills to overcome adverse or traumatic events in their lives. Its focus is on four main pillars of wellness that include mental, physical, social and spiritual.
Prior to completing the mandatory 8-hour training seminar like everyone, I had my reservations on the validity of this new program. Once it was over I was truly amazed on the practical applications that could help our Airmen more effectively deal with daily activities. The military has always taken care of our Airmen but we never truly had a program that focused on the needs of each individual person.
One of the greatest attributes of resiliency is that it is ever evolving. As we continue to find additional challenges our Airmen face we can adapt our focus to address those situations. This unique flexibility in the program’s design is what makes it significantly different from any other program we have used in the past. As I have spoken to several noncommissioned officers who have taken the course there has been a common theme; they wish that this training was around when they were Airmen.
The reason I believe that they feel this way is because resiliency does not only focus on military applications, it applies to all life’s challenges. Becoming a resilient airman will not only help your military career it will also enhance your personnel life. Being able to successfully cope with all life has to bring will help you become a better airman, supervisor, friend, spouse and parent.
As we transition the Air Force into the future there are many obstacles that we will have to overcome. We have seen some of the challenges come to light over the past year with the significant drawdown of deployed troops, mandatory reduction of personnel in our armed forces and some unprecedented fiscal constraints. If we expect our Airmen to deal with the current uncertainties of the future, we must prepare them to become more effective and resilient Airmen. The U.S. Air Force has always been and will continue to be the standard at which excellence is measured. As we transition into the future there is one thing that I am sure of, it is that the world’s greatest and most resilient Airmen will lead the way.
19th Maintenance Group superintendent
Living in today’s society can be both exciting and challenging, depending on your perspective and state of mind. Growing up as the youngest son of 10 children, my family endured both triumphs and tragedy. As we go through our daily lives we commonly find ourselves in situations that we are unprepared to handle or need support from others.
Prior to joining the military my foundation for dealing with life’s situations came from the fact that my family always supported me in all aspects of my life. When I joined the Air Force 24 years ago, my core foundation of support was gone, and I found myself for the first time learning to deal with life’s struggles on my own.
Today as I talk to our Airmen, I have found that while the issues they face are uniquely different, the concept of dealing with them is basically the same. Last year the Air Force implemented a resiliency training concept that I believe is one of the best Airmen developmental programs seen to date. It incorporates a Comprehensive Airmen Fitness plan that creates a culture where Airmen have the skills to overcome adverse or traumatic events in their lives. Its focus is on four main pillars of wellness that include mental, physical, social and spiritual.
Prior to completing the mandatory 8-hour training seminar like everyone, I had my reservations on the validity of this new program. Once it was over I was truly amazed on the practical applications that could help our Airmen more effectively deal with daily activities. The military has always taken care of our Airmen but we never truly had a program that focused on the needs of each individual person.
One of the greatest attributes of resiliency is that it is ever evolving. As we continue to find additional challenges our Airmen face we can adapt our focus to address those situations. This unique flexibility in the program’s design is what makes it significantly different from any other program we have used in the past. As I have spoken to several noncommissioned officers who have taken the course there has been a common theme; they wish that this training was around when they were Airmen.
The reason I believe that they feel this way is because resiliency does not only focus on military applications, it applies to all life’s challenges. Becoming a resilient airman will not only help your military career it will also enhance your personnel life. Being able to successfully cope with all life has to bring will help you become a better airman, supervisor, friend, spouse and parent.
As we transition the Air Force into the future there are many obstacles that we will have to overcome. We have seen some of the challenges come to light over the past year with the significant drawdown of deployed troops, mandatory reduction of personnel in our armed forces and some unprecedented fiscal constraints. If we expect our Airmen to deal with the current uncertainties of the future, we must prepare them to become more effective and resilient Airmen. The U.S. Air Force has always been and will continue to be the standard at which excellence is measured. As we transition into the future there is one thing that I am sure of, it is that the world’s greatest and most resilient Airmen will lead the way.
Thursday, April 4, 2013
COMMENTARY>>C-130 Legacy Formal Training Unit — so what’s up with that?
By Col. Steve Eggensperger
189th Airlift Wing commander
If you’ve found yourself asking this question over the last few years, you’re not alone. There have been lots of changes that have affected the entire “Herk” community so let me try to explain the logic behind some of the seemingly whiplash changes you’ve seen. Read on …
But first a little background. The 189th Airlift Wing has been the Air National Guard portion of the Total Force Formal Training Unit for more than 27 years now. We first started training students in the C-130 in 1986 and taught Initial Qualification training only for the first 12 years. By 1998 we had amassed a very experienced cadre of C-130 instructors with both FTU and worldwide tactical airlift experience so it made perfect sense to transition the 189 AW into the Instructor School training mission. That mission continues to be our primary flying mission and our operators and maintainers are focused on the FTU and student production on a daily basis. The rest of the wing supports the training mission but also provides expeditionary combat support so their primary mission focus is deployment preparation and combat readiness.
In 2004 the Air Force began studying an upgraded C-130 cockpit design which would eventually be called the C-130 Avionics Modernization Program. This avionics upgrade would retrofit the cockpits of the older C-130s giving them increased navigational precision and increased reliability and bring them into the age of the modern “glass cockpit.” (A term which refers to flight instrumentation being displayed on computer screens rather than the old individual round gauges.) In 2007 the 189 AW was chosen as the “lead unit” for the program and to eventually stand up the AMP FTU to provide training to all crew positions of AMP flyers. The AMP crew complement is two pilots, a flight engineer, and a loadmaster (no navigator). Our pilots and flight engineers selected as the “AMP Initial Cadre” were involved in design testing and flew on the initial test missions with the 418th Test Squadron at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif.
The AMP conversion syllabus was significant and was almost like learning to fly a completely different airplane. The pilot conversion course to teach a currently qualified C-130 pilot to be an AMP pilot, for example, was almost two months long. So as over 220 aircraft in the C-130 legacy fleet were to be upgraded, the 189 AW would simultaneously be training the crews to be qualified to fly their newly converted aircraft when they returned to their home unit. That was a significant amount of conversion training planned to take place at Little Rock AFB between 2012 and about 2020. And keep in mind that conversion training is in addition to the ongoing initial qualification, mission qualification, and instructor training taking place every day here at The Rock.
Meanwhile, as the Air Mobility Command tactical airlifters saw their deployments increase and their home station time decrease there was an obvious need for additional active duty crews to share in the deployment burden. This fact spawned the initiative in 2010 to bring a new Air Force Reserve unit to Little Rock AFB to partner with the 189 AW so that the active duty trainers in the 62nd Airlift Squadron could be reassigned to other AMC units. This initiative would significantly reduce the active duty footprint in the legacy FTU as the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserves (together referred to as the “Air Reserve Component” or “ARC”) would form an ARC Association to take over the flight line portion of the legacy training (which would of course eventually become AMP training as the fleet was converted). That was the grand
plan …
The 189th AW spent most of 2011 preparing to host the Initial Operational Test and Evaluation phase of the AMP program. IOT&E was to begin in January 2012 but due to financial constraints the program was placed on hold only days before the IOT&E flying phase was to begin. AMP answers valid needs in the legacy airplanes, however, the program is expensive and therefore drew close scrutiny when there was a need to cut budgets. Today, the program remains on hold pending a final congressional funding decision.
Meanwhile, the legacy FTU training must continue despite budget and AMP uncertainty because the students never stop showing up for training. But with the uncertainty of AMP conversion training there is no longer a need for such the robust FTU as originally envisioned when the decision was made in 2010 to create the ARC Association. Today the FTU stands at a crossroads. The current Air Force proposal is to cancel AMP and increase the size of the 189th AW by four aircraft to allow the ANG to take a greater role in the FTU with a goal of the 189th AW eventually taking over the entire flying portion of the legacy training program. But this will not happen overnight and the 314th Airlift Wing and AFRC Detachment 1 will likely be involved in legacy flying training for a few more years.
Yes, that’s a lot of change in a short period of time. But there are a lot of things that remain constant here at The Rock. Team Little Rock was Total Force before Total Force was cool. The Guard and the active duty have been working hand-in-hand here for years and although we are not a formal association the three wings here function together in some ways more efficiently than units that are involved in a formal Total Force Initiative association. The 19 AW provides an exceptional level of host base support to all the various units and components represented in Team Little Rock. Years of working side by side with the 314th AW in pursuit of excellence in C-130 training has forged a great partnership and understanding of the strengths and limitations of each component—so we work together in a synergistic manner to provide the best possible training to our students. Our students and their gaining commands are our customers, and our objective is to provide combat units with highly qualified crewmembers and to instill in our graduates the confidence, skill, and ability to do the tactical airlift business of this great nation. So regardless of what changes lie ahead, I see Little Rock AFB as the center of the
C-130 universe and I see a strong Team Little Rock ready and able to provide all components of combat airlift. Team Little Rock = Combat Airlift!
189th Airlift Wing commander
If you’ve found yourself asking this question over the last few years, you’re not alone. There have been lots of changes that have affected the entire “Herk” community so let me try to explain the logic behind some of the seemingly whiplash changes you’ve seen. Read on …
But first a little background. The 189th Airlift Wing has been the Air National Guard portion of the Total Force Formal Training Unit for more than 27 years now. We first started training students in the C-130 in 1986 and taught Initial Qualification training only for the first 12 years. By 1998 we had amassed a very experienced cadre of C-130 instructors with both FTU and worldwide tactical airlift experience so it made perfect sense to transition the 189 AW into the Instructor School training mission. That mission continues to be our primary flying mission and our operators and maintainers are focused on the FTU and student production on a daily basis. The rest of the wing supports the training mission but also provides expeditionary combat support so their primary mission focus is deployment preparation and combat readiness.
In 2004 the Air Force began studying an upgraded C-130 cockpit design which would eventually be called the C-130 Avionics Modernization Program. This avionics upgrade would retrofit the cockpits of the older C-130s giving them increased navigational precision and increased reliability and bring them into the age of the modern “glass cockpit.” (A term which refers to flight instrumentation being displayed on computer screens rather than the old individual round gauges.) In 2007 the 189 AW was chosen as the “lead unit” for the program and to eventually stand up the AMP FTU to provide training to all crew positions of AMP flyers. The AMP crew complement is two pilots, a flight engineer, and a loadmaster (no navigator). Our pilots and flight engineers selected as the “AMP Initial Cadre” were involved in design testing and flew on the initial test missions with the 418th Test Squadron at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif.
The AMP conversion syllabus was significant and was almost like learning to fly a completely different airplane. The pilot conversion course to teach a currently qualified C-130 pilot to be an AMP pilot, for example, was almost two months long. So as over 220 aircraft in the C-130 legacy fleet were to be upgraded, the 189 AW would simultaneously be training the crews to be qualified to fly their newly converted aircraft when they returned to their home unit. That was a significant amount of conversion training planned to take place at Little Rock AFB between 2012 and about 2020. And keep in mind that conversion training is in addition to the ongoing initial qualification, mission qualification, and instructor training taking place every day here at The Rock.
Meanwhile, as the Air Mobility Command tactical airlifters saw their deployments increase and their home station time decrease there was an obvious need for additional active duty crews to share in the deployment burden. This fact spawned the initiative in 2010 to bring a new Air Force Reserve unit to Little Rock AFB to partner with the 189 AW so that the active duty trainers in the 62nd Airlift Squadron could be reassigned to other AMC units. This initiative would significantly reduce the active duty footprint in the legacy FTU as the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserves (together referred to as the “Air Reserve Component” or “ARC”) would form an ARC Association to take over the flight line portion of the legacy training (which would of course eventually become AMP training as the fleet was converted). That was the grand
plan …
The 189th AW spent most of 2011 preparing to host the Initial Operational Test and Evaluation phase of the AMP program. IOT&E was to begin in January 2012 but due to financial constraints the program was placed on hold only days before the IOT&E flying phase was to begin. AMP answers valid needs in the legacy airplanes, however, the program is expensive and therefore drew close scrutiny when there was a need to cut budgets. Today, the program remains on hold pending a final congressional funding decision.
Meanwhile, the legacy FTU training must continue despite budget and AMP uncertainty because the students never stop showing up for training. But with the uncertainty of AMP conversion training there is no longer a need for such the robust FTU as originally envisioned when the decision was made in 2010 to create the ARC Association. Today the FTU stands at a crossroads. The current Air Force proposal is to cancel AMP and increase the size of the 189th AW by four aircraft to allow the ANG to take a greater role in the FTU with a goal of the 189th AW eventually taking over the entire flying portion of the legacy training program. But this will not happen overnight and the 314th Airlift Wing and AFRC Detachment 1 will likely be involved in legacy flying training for a few more years.
Yes, that’s a lot of change in a short period of time. But there are a lot of things that remain constant here at The Rock. Team Little Rock was Total Force before Total Force was cool. The Guard and the active duty have been working hand-in-hand here for years and although we are not a formal association the three wings here function together in some ways more efficiently than units that are involved in a formal Total Force Initiative association. The 19 AW provides an exceptional level of host base support to all the various units and components represented in Team Little Rock. Years of working side by side with the 314th AW in pursuit of excellence in C-130 training has forged a great partnership and understanding of the strengths and limitations of each component—so we work together in a synergistic manner to provide the best possible training to our students. Our students and their gaining commands are our customers, and our objective is to provide combat units with highly qualified crewmembers and to instill in our graduates the confidence, skill, and ability to do the tactical airlift business of this great nation. So regardless of what changes lie ahead, I see Little Rock AFB as the center of the
C-130 universe and I see a strong Team Little Rock ready and able to provide all components of combat airlift. Team Little Rock = Combat Airlift!
TOP STORY>>Army barrage leaves Medics licking wounds
By Senior Airman Regina Agoha
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Camp Robinson’s basketballers showed up Army strong and rolled like an Abrams tank division over the 19th Medical Group, winning 77 – 44 and 64 – 49, in the April 2 double-elimination base intramural championship games.
After losing their first game of the tournament, the Camp Robinson team climbed the loser’s bracket marching their way to a finals match-up with the red-hot 19th Medical Group team, the league’s defending champions.
To claim the championship crown, Camp Robinson had to win a marathon match of two out of three games. There were no signs of doubt in the Camp Robinson team, even though they knew the champs would not surrender their title willingly. The intensity from both teams in the first half of game one made it hard for on-lookers to immediately pick a champion. One after another, the teams answered volleys of shots with assists between the legs, steals, three-pointers and lay-ups.
Though the 19th MDG’s defense was strong, Camp Robinson’s offense was Army strong as they slowly established a 20-point lead to close the first half, 44-24.
During halftime, each coach rallied their troops and reiterated their battle plans for the second half.
The Medics’ coach, Peter Elefante, said his team was playing “lax”, and the team’s defense needed to be more aggressive.
Camp Robinson’s coach, Ron Bailey, said his team was doing well, and he encouraged them to simply continue doing what they were doing. He said they had played the Medics before and knew they were a really good team. He was confident in his team’s abilities to win the championship.
In the second half, the 19th MDG attempted to surgically cut into the 20-point deficit, but their turnovers coupled with Camp Robinson’s tireless rebounding led to an Army win in game one , 77-44.
“That was a good game,” said Bailey. “The Med Group is going to come back hard. We just have to keep playing with the same intensity, and we will most definitely win [the championship].”
The Medics did answer the emergency siren and did indeed come back hard, jumping to the lead and maintaining it for the first 10 minutes of game two. All signs pointed to a third game in order to determine base basketball bragging rights.
Then Camp Robinson launched an 8-0 offensive counterattack, tying the game, 34-34. The Army artillery barrage fired up their fans and ignited excitement in the entire gym. Camp Robinson’s hoopsters fed off that energy that moment on, and there was no slowing down the onslaught.
It was almost a complete repeat of the game one after Camp Robinson captured the lead and never retreated, cruising to victory, 64-49 and hoisting the Little Rock Air Force Base Intramural Basketball Championship trophy.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Camp Robinson’s basketballers showed up Army strong and rolled like an Abrams tank division over the 19th Medical Group, winning 77 – 44 and 64 – 49, in the April 2 double-elimination base intramural championship games.
After losing their first game of the tournament, the Camp Robinson team climbed the loser’s bracket marching their way to a finals match-up with the red-hot 19th Medical Group team, the league’s defending champions.
To claim the championship crown, Camp Robinson had to win a marathon match of two out of three games. There were no signs of doubt in the Camp Robinson team, even though they knew the champs would not surrender their title willingly. The intensity from both teams in the first half of game one made it hard for on-lookers to immediately pick a champion. One after another, the teams answered volleys of shots with assists between the legs, steals, three-pointers and lay-ups.
Though the 19th MDG’s defense was strong, Camp Robinson’s offense was Army strong as they slowly established a 20-point lead to close the first half, 44-24.
During halftime, each coach rallied their troops and reiterated their battle plans for the second half.
The Medics’ coach, Peter Elefante, said his team was playing “lax”, and the team’s defense needed to be more aggressive.
Camp Robinson’s coach, Ron Bailey, said his team was doing well, and he encouraged them to simply continue doing what they were doing. He said they had played the Medics before and knew they were a really good team. He was confident in his team’s abilities to win the championship.
In the second half, the 19th MDG attempted to surgically cut into the 20-point deficit, but their turnovers coupled with Camp Robinson’s tireless rebounding led to an Army win in game one , 77-44.
“That was a good game,” said Bailey. “The Med Group is going to come back hard. We just have to keep playing with the same intensity, and we will most definitely win [the championship].”
The Medics did answer the emergency siren and did indeed come back hard, jumping to the lead and maintaining it for the first 10 minutes of game two. All signs pointed to a third game in order to determine base basketball bragging rights.
Then Camp Robinson launched an 8-0 offensive counterattack, tying the game, 34-34. The Army artillery barrage fired up their fans and ignited excitement in the entire gym. Camp Robinson’s hoopsters fed off that energy that moment on, and there was no slowing down the onslaught.
It was almost a complete repeat of the game one after Camp Robinson captured the lead and never retreated, cruising to victory, 64-49 and hoisting the Little Rock Air Force Base Intramural Basketball Championship trophy.
TOP STORY>>It’s time for spring fishing
By Staff Sgt. Russ Scalf
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
It’s time to grab your bobbers and dust off the old cane pole; spring has arrived in Arkansas.
In reality it’s far more serious than that. Fishing is big business in Arkansas. For those who are new to the area, or just don’t know, the Natural State is home to some of the best fishing in the world. Arkansas waters support more than 25 species of fish that inhabit equally diverse locations.
Fishing opportunities abound in central Arkansas. According to Ben Batten, a biologist with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the state has several programs designed to encourage participation in the sport, from anglers of all experience levels.
The Family and Community Fishing Program, which is within Batten’s purview, is designed to enhance and create fishing destinations in urban areas. Essentially, their mission is to provide great fishing opportunities to all Arkansans.
“The first two weeks of April, we’ll be stocking fish in about 30 locations around the state,” said Batten. “There are several places near Little Rock Air Force Base where we will be stocking. Paradise Park Lake in Jacksonville, which butts up against the base, just got added to the program and will receive approximately 500 catfish in April, May, June and October. That’s in addition to the bass and panfish already in the lake. There are also two locations in Sherwood. Sherwood community pond is one, on Kiehl Ave. The other one is a gem, about a mile away called Cherrywood Lake.”
Batten stressed that many of the locations chosen for the program are in family-friendly parks, with playgrounds and other activities for children. Growing a new generation of anglers is important to the quality of all fisheries.
“There are definitely some things that parents can do to make fishing more enjoyable for children,” said Batten. “Parents should do things like keep the trip short and make it fun. You should bring plenty of snacks and drinks. Fishing is about slowing down, enjoying nature and teaching patience. I encourage parents to put their cell phones away and really talk to their children. I catch myself doing the same thing and have to remember what nature is all about.”
If that isn’t enough incentive to cast a line, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has additional programs to sweeten the deal. June 7-9 will be a free fishing weekend around the state, where new anglers have the opportunity to try out fishing before purchasing a license. On June 8 the Joe Hogan State Fish Hatchery, which is just a 30-minute trip to Lonoke, will host a children’s fishing derby.
“The derby is a great thing to go to,” said Batten. “They do hourly prizes for the biggest fish; the biggest fish caught last year was about nine pounds. It’s pretty fun to see a 6 year-old drag in a 6-or-7-pound catfish.”
If you’re still not hooked, the state also runs a promotion that offers prizes for catching tagged fish.
“We place bright neon tags near the dorsal fin of the fish,” said Batten. “We put 10 per location in every location we manage around the state. If you catch a tagged fish, there is a phone number on it that will give you instructions on how to mail it to Game and Fish. Everybody who mails in a tag will have a prize package mailed to them. There is fishing gear, baits and other items. At the end, we do a drawing and give away a grand prize. Last year we gave away a mini pontoon boat. This year we are hoping to do at least three large prizes and then some smaller ones as well.”
The same program just awarded a two-night stay and a guided fishing trip on the Little Red River, as a result of the winter trout tagging promotion.
Additional information on Arkansas Game and Fish Commission programs and stocking dates can be found at www.agfc.com, as well as the state rules and regulations to make any trip memorable and responsible.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
It’s time to grab your bobbers and dust off the old cane pole; spring has arrived in Arkansas.
In reality it’s far more serious than that. Fishing is big business in Arkansas. For those who are new to the area, or just don’t know, the Natural State is home to some of the best fishing in the world. Arkansas waters support more than 25 species of fish that inhabit equally diverse locations.
Fishing opportunities abound in central Arkansas. According to Ben Batten, a biologist with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the state has several programs designed to encourage participation in the sport, from anglers of all experience levels.
The Family and Community Fishing Program, which is within Batten’s purview, is designed to enhance and create fishing destinations in urban areas. Essentially, their mission is to provide great fishing opportunities to all Arkansans.
“The first two weeks of April, we’ll be stocking fish in about 30 locations around the state,” said Batten. “There are several places near Little Rock Air Force Base where we will be stocking. Paradise Park Lake in Jacksonville, which butts up against the base, just got added to the program and will receive approximately 500 catfish in April, May, June and October. That’s in addition to the bass and panfish already in the lake. There are also two locations in Sherwood. Sherwood community pond is one, on Kiehl Ave. The other one is a gem, about a mile away called Cherrywood Lake.”
Batten stressed that many of the locations chosen for the program are in family-friendly parks, with playgrounds and other activities for children. Growing a new generation of anglers is important to the quality of all fisheries.
“There are definitely some things that parents can do to make fishing more enjoyable for children,” said Batten. “Parents should do things like keep the trip short and make it fun. You should bring plenty of snacks and drinks. Fishing is about slowing down, enjoying nature and teaching patience. I encourage parents to put their cell phones away and really talk to their children. I catch myself doing the same thing and have to remember what nature is all about.”
If that isn’t enough incentive to cast a line, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has additional programs to sweeten the deal. June 7-9 will be a free fishing weekend around the state, where new anglers have the opportunity to try out fishing before purchasing a license. On June 8 the Joe Hogan State Fish Hatchery, which is just a 30-minute trip to Lonoke, will host a children’s fishing derby.
“The derby is a great thing to go to,” said Batten. “They do hourly prizes for the biggest fish; the biggest fish caught last year was about nine pounds. It’s pretty fun to see a 6 year-old drag in a 6-or-7-pound catfish.”
If you’re still not hooked, the state also runs a promotion that offers prizes for catching tagged fish.
“We place bright neon tags near the dorsal fin of the fish,” said Batten. “We put 10 per location in every location we manage around the state. If you catch a tagged fish, there is a phone number on it that will give you instructions on how to mail it to Game and Fish. Everybody who mails in a tag will have a prize package mailed to them. There is fishing gear, baits and other items. At the end, we do a drawing and give away a grand prize. Last year we gave away a mini pontoon boat. This year we are hoping to do at least three large prizes and then some smaller ones as well.”
The same program just awarded a two-night stay and a guided fishing trip on the Little Red River, as a result of the winter trout tagging promotion.
Additional information on Arkansas Game and Fish Commission programs and stocking dates can be found at www.agfc.com, as well as the state rules and regulations to make any trip memorable and responsible.
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